Canadian universities strengthen ties with France and other European nations amid Horizon Europe agreement nations amid Horizon Europe agreement

Universities Canada and France Universités are pleased to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to foster strategic collaboration between the universities in both countries on teaching and research. This agreement represents a significant step toward advancing student mobility, research collaboration, research security and joint programming opportunities between Canada and France, reflecting the two organizations’ commitment to strengthening their higher education sectors and communities.

The MoU was signed during an event organized by Universities Canada in Toulouse, France on September 16, 2024, ahead of the international EAIE 2024 conference, also taking place in Toulouse this week. Universities Canada’s event focused on the new Horizon Europe agreement and the opportunities it presents for increased collaboration between European and Canadian post-secondary institutions. The event, attended by post-secondary and government representatives from across Canada and France, helped institutions strengthen their international networks and deepen their knowledge of the Horizon Europe program.

This increased partnership between Canada, France and other European nations will reveal further opportunities for joint projects, knowledge exchange and the development of innovative solutions to address global challenges.

Gabriel Miller, President and CEO of Universities Canada commented, “The partnerships and insights gained through this agreement will help Canadian universities collaborate across Europe to tackle some of the biggest global challenges we face—whether it’s housing, productivity or social inequality. By working together, we can strengthen our universities and create a healthier and more prosperous world for everyone.”

Guillaume Gellé, President of France Universités added, “Strengthening the existing ties between our institutions through this MoU will lead to incredible joint research projects that address current and future challenges, and to beneficial university collaborations for students and researchers. Sharing our respective knowledge will have a positive impact in all areas, from education to research and innovation.”